Distributor and air conditioner including the same

ABSTRACT

An air conditioner including a distributor capable of adjusting the distribution of fluid flow to branched pipes is provided. The air conditioner includes a distributor configured to distribute a fluid flowing therethrough, and a heat exchanger including refrigerant pipes through which the fluid distributed by the distributor flows, the heat exchanger configured to heat exchange the fluid with air. The distributor includes an outer pipe having a cylindrical shape through which the fluid passes, and branched pipes. Each of the branched pipes includes one end connected to the outer pipe by being inserted into the outer pipe and includes a fluid passing part provided to allow the fluid to flow in or out. At least two branched pipes are configured such that at least one of an insertion length and a diameter of the fluid passing part inserted into the outer pipe are different from each other.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is based on and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(a) of a Japanese patent application number 2020-085230, filed on May 14, 2020, filed in the Japanese Patent Office, and of a Korean patent application number 10-2020-0106015, filed on Aug. 24, 2020, filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND 1. Field

The disclosure relates to a distributor and an air conditioner including the same. More particularly, the disclosure relates to an air conditioner including a distributor capable of adjusting the distribution of fluid flow to a plurality of branched pipes.

2. Description of Related Art

A distributing device in which a main pipe is installed on an upstream side of a main body of the distributing device through which a fluid flows and a plurality of outflow pipes is installed on a downstream side of the main body is known, where the main pipe includes a distributor installed at an inlet through which the fluid flows in, an inner pipe linked to the distributor, partition members to form as many distribution paths as the number of the outflow pipes inside the inner pipe, and an outer pipe enclosing the inner pipe and forming a reservoir linked to each of the distribution paths in the inner pipe, and each of the outflow pipes is linked to the corresponding reservoir of the main pipe (for example, see Patent Literature 1).

Patent Literature 1 corresponds to Japanese Patent Application Publication No. JP2730299 B2.

The above information is presented as background information only to assist with an understanding of the disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with regard to the disclosure.

SUMMARY

A distributor to distribute a fluid to a plurality of branched pipes may be provided by connecting the plurality of branched pipes to an outer pipe having a cylindrical shape. However, in a case where inner diameters of reduced flow path parts of at least two branched pipes of the plurality of branched pipes and insertion lengths of the at least two branched pipes into the outer pipe are each the same, it is not possible to increase the possibility of adjusting fluid flow distribution to the plurality of branched pipes.

Aspects of the disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the disclosure is to provide a distributor capable of increasing the possibility of adjusting fluid flow distribution to a plurality of branched pipes, compared to a case where inner diameters of reduced flow path parts of at least two branched pipes of the plurality of branched pipes and insertion lengths of the at least two branched pipes into the outer pipe are each the same.

Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an air conditioner is provided. The air conditioner includes a distributor configured to distribute a fluid flowing therethrough, and a heat exchanger including a plurality of refrigerant pipes through which the fluid distributed by the distributor flows, the heat exchanger is configured to heat exchange the fluid with air, wherein the distributor includes an outer pipe having a cylindrical shape through which the fluid passes, and a plurality of branched pipes, wherein each of the plurality of branched pipes includes one end connected to the outer pipe by being inserted into the outer pipe and including a fluid passing part provided to allow the fluid to flow in or out, and wherein at least two branched pipes among the plurality of branched pipes are configured such that at least one of an insertion length or a diameter of the fluid passing part inserted into the outer pipe are different from each other.

The fluid passing part may include a reduced flow path part formed at the one end of each of the branched pipes or a hole formed on one surface of each of the branched pipes inserted into the outer pipe.

The diameter of the fluid passing part may include an inner diameter of the reduced flow path part or a diameter of the hole.

The outer pipe may be formed in a circular cylindrical shape or a rectangular cylindrical shape.

The outer pipe may include a protrusion provided on an inner surface of the outer pipe.

The protrusion may be provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe corresponding to an insertion direction of each of the branched pipes.

The protrusion may be provided at a position corresponding to a position to which each of the branched pipes is connected on the inner surface of the outer pipe.

The outer pipe may include a plurality of protrusions provided to be spaced apart from each other along a circumferential direction of an inner surface of the outer pipe.

The plurality of protrusions may be formed in a triangular shape or a trapezoidal shape.

The outer pipe may be twisted about an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the outer pipe.

The air conditioner may further include another outer pipe having a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of other branched pipes, wherein each of the plurality of the other branched pipes may be connected to the other outer pipe and may include a reduced flow path part inserted into the other outer pipe, wherein the other outer pipe may be twisted about an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the other outer pipe, and wherein at least two other branched pipes among the plurality of the other branched pipes may each be configured such that at least one of inner diameter of the reduced flow path part or an insertion length inserted into the other outer pipe are different from each other.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a distributor for distributing a fluid to each of a plurality of refrigerant pipes provided in a heat exchanger of an air conditioner is provided. The distributor includes an outer pipe having a cylindrical shape through which the fluid passes, and a plurality of branched pipes, wherein each of the plurality of branched pipes has one end connected to the outer pipe by being inserted into the outer pipe and includes a fluid passing part provided to allow the fluid to flow in or out, and wherein at least two branched pipes among the plurality of branched pipes are configured such that at least one of a diameter of the fluid passing part or an insertion length inserted into the outer pipe are different from each other.

The fluid passing part may include a reduced flow path part formed at the one end of each of the branched pipes or a hole formed on one surface of each of the branched pipes inserted into the outer pipe.

The diameter of the fluid passing part may include an inner diameter of the reduced flow path part or a diameter of the hole.

The outer pipe may include a protrusion provided on an inner surface of the outer pipe.

The protrusion may be provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe corresponding to an insertion direction of each of the branched pipes.

The protrusion may be provided at a position corresponding to a position to which each of the branched pipes is connected on the inner surface of the outer pipe.

The outer pipe may include a plurality of protrusions provided to be spaced apart from each other along a circumferential direction of an inner surface of the outer pipe, and the plurality of protrusions may be formed in a triangular shape or a trapezoidal shape.

The outer pipe may be twisted about an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the outer pipe.

The distributor may further include another outer pipe having a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of other branched pipes, wherein each of the plurality of branched pipes is connected to the other outer pipe and includes a reduced flow path part inserted into the other outer pipe, wherein the other outer pipe may be twisted about an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the other outer pipe, and wherein the at least two other branched pipes among the plurality of the other branched pipes may each be configured such that at least one of an inner diameter of the reduced flow path part and an insertion length inserted into the other outer pipe are different from each other.

Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses various embodiments of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the disclosure will be more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a view illustrating the overall structure of a distributor according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor in FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are views illustrating modified examples of the cross section taken along line A-A of the distributor in FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates relations for each branched pipe in a heat exchanger between wind velocity at the height of a refrigerant pipe connected to the branched pipe and a refrigerant rate suitable to flow into the branched pipe according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a view illustrating the overall structure of a distributor according to a second embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of a distributor according to a third embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of a distributor according to a fourth embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of a distributor according to a fifth embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a view illustrating a modified example of the cross section taken along line A-A of the distributor according to the fifth embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a view illustrating the overall structure of a distributor according to a sixth embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a distributor according to a seventh embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the distributor in FIG. 11 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a distributor according to an eighth embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the distributor in FIG. 13 according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

FIG. 15 is a view illustrating the overall structure of a heat exchanger unit including a distributor and a heat exchanger according to a ninth embodiment of the disclosure.

Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a component surface” includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.

Hereinafter, a fluid passing part may include a reduced flow path part of a branched pipe and a hole provided on one surface of the branched pipe inserted into an outer pipe. A diameter of the fluid path part may include an inner diameter of the reduced flow path part and a diameter of the hole.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1 is a view illustrating the overall structure of a distributor 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The distributor 1 distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof

Referring to FIG. 1, the distributor 1 includes an outer pipe 10 having a cylindrical shape, an inlet 20 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on a refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and a cap 30 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on a refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. An orifice plate is provided in the inlet 20, but because the orifice plate is not visible from the outside, the orifice plate is not shown. The distributor 1 also includes a plurality of connection pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and a plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of connection pipes 40, respectively, and connected to refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger which are not shown. This embodiment illustrates that the plurality of connection pipes 40 is provided on one of the outer pipe(s) 10, but is not limited thereto. That is, a plurality of the outer pipes 10 may be prepared, and a plurality of the connection pipes 40 may be provided to couple adjacent ones of the plurality of outer pipes 10, inlets 20, and caps 30. Even in this case, the plurality of outer pipes 10 combined by the plurality of connection pipes 40 may be regarded as a single ‘outer pipe’.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 1 in FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 2, the branched pipes 50 are fitted in the outer pipe 10. In the first embodiment, inner diameters D of reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Further, in the first embodiment, insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. This embodiment illustrates that the inner diameters D and the insertion lengths L of the reduced flow path parts 51 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 are all provided to be different from each other, but is not limited thereto. That is, at least ones of the inner diameters D and the insertion lengths L of the reduced flow path parts 51 of the at least two branched pipes 50 among the plurality of branched pipes 50 may be provided to be different from each other.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are views illustrating modified examples of the cross section taken along line A-A of the distributor 1 in FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

While FIG. 2 illustrates that the reduced flow path part 51 is provided in the branched pipe 50 and a refrigerant inlet is provided at the end thereof, FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate that the reduced flow path part 51 is not provided in the branched pipe 50 and the refrigerant inlet is provided at any side of the branched pipe 50. Specifically, FIG. 3A illustrates that a front hole 52, which is the refrigerant inlet, is provided on a front surface of the branched pipe 50. In this case, diameters of the front holes 52 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. FIG. 3B illustrates that side holes 53 and 54, which are the refrigerant inlets, are provided on a side of the branched pipe 50. In this case, diameters of the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in these modified examples, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. This embodiment illustrates that the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 and the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 are all provided to be different from each other, but is not limited thereto. That is, at least ones of the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 and the insertion lengths L of the reduced flow path parts 51 of the at least two branched pipes 50 among the plurality of branched pipes 50 may be provided to be different from each other.

As such, the first embodiment exemplifies that the inner diameters D and the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 are different from each other. Accordingly, refrigerant flow distribution may be adjusted, thereby increasing heat exchange capability.

Hereinafter, a specific example in which the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 and the insertion lengths L of the branched pipes 50 are provided to be different from each other will be described. FIG. 4 illustrates relations for each of the branched pipes 50 in the heat exchanger between wind velocity at the height of a refrigerant pipe connected to the branched pipe 50 and a refrigerant rate suitable to flow into the branched pipe 50. Referring to FIG. 4, it may be seen that in the heat exchanger, at a higher height, wind velocity increases, and so more refrigerant flow may be desirable. For more refrigerant flow, the inner diameter D of the reduced flow path part 51 may be increased and the insertion length L of the branched pipe 50 may be reduced.

FIG. 4 illustrates as an example that forty-two of the branched pipes 50 are connected to the outer pipe 10, so that the refrigerant flows into a total of forty-two of the branched pipes 50 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In this case, for forty-two of the branched pipes 50, ones connected to refrigerant pipes at high heights of the heat exchanger may have the reduced flow path part 51 with the large inner diameter D and have the short insertion length L.

That is, it is appropriate to supply a large amount of refrigerant because the heat exchange capacity increases in a region where wind velocity is high, and it is appropriate to supply a small amount of refrigerant because the heat exchange capacity decreases in a region where wind velocity is low. To this end, in this embodiment, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 and the insertion lengths L of the branched pipes 50 are provided to be different depending on the wind velocity distribution, so that the possibility of adjusting the fluid flow distribution to the plurality of branched pipes 50 may increase.

In this example, because the refrigerant pipes to which the branched pipes 50 are connected are arranged in the height direction of the heat exchanger, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 and the insertion lengths L of the branched pipes 50 are provided to be different from each other depending on the location in the height direction of the heat exchanger, but is not limited thereto.

As for the inner diameter D of the reduced flow path part 51, the aforementioned structure may be regarded as an example of a structure in which the inner diameter of the reduced flow path part of one of at least two branched pipes, through which a fluid distributed to a fast air flow portion of the heat exchanger passes, is greater than the inner diameter of the reduced flow path part of the other branched pipe, through which a fluid distributed to a slow air flow portion of the heat exchanger passes.

Also, as for the insertion length L of the branched pipe 50, the aforementioned structure may be regarded as an example of a structure in which the insertion length of one of at least two branched pipes into one outer pipe, through which the fluid distributed to a fast air flow portion of the heat exchanger passes, is shorter than the insertion length of the other branched pipe into the one outer pipe, through which the fluid distributed to a slow air flow portion of the heat exchanger passes.

Second Embodiment

FIG. 5 is a view illustrating the overall structure of a distributor 2 according to a second embodiment of the disclosure. The distributor 2 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof

Referring to FIG. 5, the distributor 2 includes the outer pipe 10 having a cylindrical shape, the inlet 20 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and the cap 30 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. An orifice plate is provided in the inlet 20, but because the orifice plate is not visible from the outside, the orifice plate is not shown. The distributor 2 also includes the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown.

A cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 2 in FIG. 5 is the same as a view in which the connection pipe 40 is removed from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2. In the second embodiment, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 4) are also provided to be different from each other. In the second embodiment, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 4) are also provided to be different from each other.

Or, the cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 2 in FIG. 5 is the same as a view in which the connection pipe 40 is removed from the cross-sectional view of FIGS. 3A or 3B. In this case, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other.

As such, the second embodiment exemplifies that the inner diameters D and the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 are different from each other. Accordingly, refrigerant flow distribution may be adjusted, thereby increasing heat exchange capability.

Third Embodiment

The overall structure of a distributor 3 according to a third embodiment is the same as that in FIG. 1 or 5. The distributor 3 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof In the third embodiment, the outer pipe 10 has a cylindrical shape. That is, the distributor 3 includes the outer pipe 10 having a cylindrical shape, the inlet 20 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and the cap 30 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. The distributor 3 also includes the plurality of connection pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of connection pipes 40, respectively, and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown. Or, the distributor 3 includes the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 3 according to the third embodiment of the disclosure. The overall structure of the distributor 3 in FIG. 6 is the same as in the case of a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 6, the branched pipes 50 are fitted in the outer pipe 10. In the third embodiment, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in the third embodiment, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Further, in the third embodiment, a protrusion 11 is provided on an inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in an insertion direction of the branched pipe 50. In other words, the protrusion 11 may be provided in a portion corresponding to the direction in which the branched pipe 50 is inserted as the inner surface of the outer pipe 10. It is appropriate that the protrusion 11 and the branched pipe 50 have a structure in which the refrigerant inlet of the branched pipe 50 is not closed (the refrigerant flow path is secured) even when the branched pipe 50 comes into contact with the protrusion 11. Although the protrusion 11 may be provided on the entire inner surface from an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to an end on the refrigerant downstream side, the protrusion 11 may be provided only on the inner surface of a portion of the outer pipe 10 into which the branched pipe 50 is inserted.

FIG. 6 also illustrates a modified example of the branched pipe 50 having the shape in FIGS. 3A or 3B. In this case, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Further, in this case, the protrusion 11 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branched pipe 50. The protrusion 11 may be provided in a portion corresponding to the direction in which the branched pipe 50 is inserted as the inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

Also, a cross-sectional view of the overall structure of the distributor 3 in the case of being taken along line A-A in FIG. 5 is the same as a view in which the connection pipe 40 is removed from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6 or the modified example thereof In this case, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Further, in this case, the protrusion 11 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branched pipe 50. The protrusion 11 may be provided in a portion corresponding to the direction in which the branched pipe 50 is inserted as the inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

As such, the third embodiment exemplifies that the plurality of branched pipes 50 has the different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L and the protrusion 11 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branched pipe 50. Accordingly, refrigerant flow distribution may be adjusted, thereby increasing heat exchange capability. In addition, because the protrusion 11 also acts as a resistance, the provision of the protrusion 11 may further reduce the flow rate of the refrigerant.

Fourth Embodiment

The overall structure of a distributor 4 according to a fourth embodiment is the same as that in FIG. 1 or 5. The distributor 4 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof. However, in the fourth embodiment, the outer pipe 10 has a rectangular cylindrical shape. That is, the distributor 4 includes the plurality of outer pipes 10 having a rectangular cylindrical shape, the inlet 20 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and the cap 30 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. The distributor 4 also includes the plurality of connection pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of connection pipes 40, respectively, and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown. Or, the distributor 4 includes the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 4 according to the fourth embodiment of the disclosure. The overall structure of the distributor 4 is the same as that in FIG. 1, and the cross section of the outer pipe 10 taken along line A-A in FIG. 7 has a rectangular cylindrical shape.

Referring to FIG. 7, the branched pipe 50 is connected to the outer pipe 10. In the fourth embodiment, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in the fourth embodiment, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Further, in the fourth embodiment, a protrusion 12 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branched pipe 50. The protrusion 12 may be provided in a portion corresponding to the direction in which the branched pipe 50 is inserted as the inner surface of the outer pipe 10. It is appropriate that the protrusion 12 and the branched pipe 50 have a structure in which the refrigerant inlet of the branched pipe 50 is not closed (the refrigerant flow path is secured) even when the branched pipe 50 comes into contact with the protrusion 12. Although the protrusion 12 may be provided on the entire inner surface from an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to an end on the refrigerant downstream side, the protrusion 12 may be provided only on the inner surface of a portion of the outer pipe 10 into which the branched pipe 50 is inserted.

FIG. 7 also illustrates a modified example of the branched pipe 50 having the shape in FIGS. 3A or 3B. In this case, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Further, in this case, the protrusion 12 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branched pipe 50.

Also, the overall structure of the distributor 4 is the same as that in FIG. 5, and a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in the case of the outer pipe 10 having a rectangular cylindrical shape is the same as a view in which the connection pipe 40 is removed from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 7 or a modified example thereof In this case, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Further, in this case, the protrusion 12 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branched pipe 50. The protrusion 12 may be provided in a portion corresponding to the direction in which the branched pipe 50 is inserted as the inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

As such, the fourth embodiment exemplifies that the plurality of branched pipes 50 has the different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and the protrusion 12 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branched pipe 50. Accordingly, refrigerant flow distribution may be adjusted, thereby increasing heat exchange capability. In addition, because the protrusion 12 also acts as a resistance, the provision of the protrusion 12 may further reduce the flow rate of the refrigerant.

Fifth Embodiment

The overall structure of a distributor 5 according to a fifth embodiment is the same as that in FIG. 1 or 5. The distributor 5 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof The distributor 5 also includes the plurality of outer pipes 10 having a cylindrical shape, the inlet 20 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and the cap 30 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. The distributor 5 also includes the plurality of connection pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of connection pipes 40, respectively, and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown. Or, the distributor 5 includes the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 5 according to the fifth embodiment of the disclosure. The overall structure of the distributor 5 in FIG. 8 is the same as in the case of a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 8, the branched pipes 50 are connected to the outer pipe 10. In the fifth embodiment, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in the fifth embodiment, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Further, in the fifth embodiment, protrusions 13 having a triangular shape are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10. The plurality of protrusions 13 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a circumferential direction of the inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

FIG. 9 is a view illustrating a modified example of the cross section taken along line A-A of the distributor 5 according to the fifth embodiment of the disclosure.

In this case, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. While FIG. 8 illustrates that the protrusions 13 having a triangular shape are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10, FIG. 9 illustrates that protrusions 14 having a trapezoidal shape are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10. The plurality of protrusions 14 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a circumferential direction of the inner surface of the outer pipe 10. Or, although not shown, protrusions having a semicircular shape similar to the shape of the protrusion 14 may be provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

FIG. 8 or 9 also illustrate a modified example of the branched pipe 50 having the shape in FIGS. 3A or 3B. In this case, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Further, in this case, protrusions, such as the protrusions 13 having a triangular shape and the protrusions 14 having a trapezoidal shape, are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

Also, a cross-sectional view of the overall structure of the distributor 5 in the case of being taken along line A-A in FIG. 5 is the same as a view in which the connection pipe 40 is removed from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 8 or 9, or the modified example thereof In this case, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Further, in this case, protrusions, such as the protrusions 13 having a triangular shape and the protrusions 14 having a trapezoidal shape, are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

As such, the fifth embodiment exemplifies that the plurality of branched pipes 50 has the different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and protrusions, such as the protrusions 13 and the protrusions 14, are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10. Accordingly, refrigerant flow distribution may be adjusted, thereby increasing heat exchange capability. In addition, because protrusions, such as the protrusions 13 and the protrusions 14, also act as resistances, the provision of the protrusions may further reduce the flow rate of the refrigerant.

Sixth Embodiment

FIG. 10 is a view illustrating the overall structure of a distributor 6 according to a sixth embodiment of the disclosure.

The overall structure of the distributor 6 according to the sixth embodiment is basically the same as that in FIG. 1. The distributor 6 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof The distributor 6 also includes the outer pipe 10 having a cylindrical shape, the inlet 20 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and the cap 30 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. The distributor 6 also includes the plurality of connection pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of connection pipes 40, respectively, and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown. However, in the sixth embodiment, as an example of a branched pipe, Y-shaped branches 55 are provided on the side opposite to the branched pipes 50 side on the refrigerant downstream side, that is, the branched pipes 50 side connected to the outer pipe 10.

Or, the overall structure of the distributor 6 according to the sixth embodiment is basically the same as that in FIG. 4. In this case, the distributor 6 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof The distributor 6 also includes the outer pipe 10 having a cylindrical shape, the inlet 20 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and the cap 30 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. The distributor 6 also includes the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown. However, in the sixth embodiment, as an example of a branched pipe, Y-shaped branches 55 are provided on the side opposite to the branched pipes 50 side on the refrigerant downstream side, that is, the branched pipes 50 side connected to the outer pipe 10.

A cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 6 in FIG. 10 is the same as FIG. 2 or FIGS. 3A or 3B when the overall structure of the distributor 6 is the same as that in FIG. 1. In the sixth embodiment, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in the sixth embodiment, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other.

Also, the cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 6 in FIG. 10 is the same as a view in which the connection pipe 40 is removed from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2, or FIGS. 3A or 3B when the overall structure of the distributor 6 is the same as that in FIG. 5. In this case, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other.

As such, the sixth embodiment exemplifies that the plurality of branched pipes 50 has the different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and the Y-shaped branches 55 are provided on the refrigerant downstream side. Accordingly, refrigerant flow distribution to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger as well as in the outer pipe 10 may be adjusted, thereby increasing heat exchange capability.

Seventh Embodiment

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a distributor 7 according to a seventh embodiment of the disclosure. The overall structure of the distributor 7 according to the seventh embodiment is basically the same as that in FIG. 1. The distributor 7 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof

Referring to FIG. 11, the distributor 7 also includes the outer pipe 10 having a cylindrical shape, the plurality of connection pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of connection pipes 40, respectively, and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown. Although not shown, the distributor 7 also includes the inlet 20 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and the cap 30 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. However, in the seventh embodiment, the outer pipe 10 is twisted, for example, in a spiral shape about an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the distributor 7. Also, in the seventh embodiment, the branched pipes 50 are connected to arbitrary positions in the longitudinal direction of the twisted outer pipe 10.

Or, the overall structure of the distributor 7 according to the seventh embodiment is basically the same as that in FIG. 5. In this case, the distributor 7 distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof. The distributor 7 also includes the outer pipe 10 having a cylindrical shape, the inlet 20 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and the cap 30 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. The distributor 7 also includes the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown. However, in the seventh embodiment, the outer pipe 10 is twisted, for example, in a spiral shape about the axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the distributor 7. Also, in the seventh embodiment, the branched pipes 50 are connected to arbitrary positions in the longitudinal direction of the twisted outer pipe 10.

FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the distributor 7 in FIG. 11 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In a case where the outer pipe 10 is twisted in a spiral shape, as illustrated in FIG. 12, a portion 104 of the outer pipe 10 below a lowest connection pipe 40 ₃ in FIG. 11 is seen from the front, a portion 103 of the outer pipe 10 above the connection pipe 40 ₃ is seen from the inside, and the portions 104 and 103 are seen overlapping.

A cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 7 according to the seventh embodiment is the same as FIG. 2 or FIGS. 3A or 3B when the overall structure of the distributor 7 is based on FIG. 1. In the seventh embodiment, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 (three of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 11) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (three of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 11) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in the seventh embodiment, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (three of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 11) are provided to be different from each other.

Also, the cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor according to the seventh embodiment is the same as a view in which the connection pipe 40 is removed from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2, or FIGS. 3A or 3B when the overall structure of the distributor 7 is based on FIG. 5. In this case, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 (three of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 11) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (three of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 11) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (three of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 11) are provided to be different from each other.

As such, the seventh embodiment exemplifies that the plurality of branched pipes 50 has the different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and the outer pipe 10 is twisted about the axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the distributor 7. Accordingly, mixing efficiency of gaseous refrigerant and liquid refrigerant may be improved and refrigerant flow distribution may be adjusted, thereby increasing heat exchange capability.

Eighth Embodiment

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a distributor 8 according to an eighth embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 13, the distributor 8 according to the eighth embodiment includes a first distributor 8 a to a seventh distributor 8 g.

The overall structure of each of the first distributor 8 a to the seventh distributor 8 g is basically the same as that in FIG. 1. As an example, referring to the first distributor 8 a, the first distributor 8 a distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the first distributor 8 a includes an outer pipe 10 a having a cylindrical shape, a plurality of connection pipes 40 a provided on the outer pipe 10 a, and a plurality of branched pipes 50 a joined to the outer pipe 10 a by being inserted into the plurality of connection pipes 40 a, respectively, and connected to refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger which are not shown. Although not shown, the first distributor 8 a also includes an inlet coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 a on a refrigerant upstream side to induce a refrigerant, and a cap coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 a on a refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. However, in the eighth embodiment, the outer pipe 10 a is twisted, for example, in a spiral shape about an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the distributor 8. The above may be applied to the second distributor 8 b to the seventh distributor 8 g. In this case, the outer pipes 10 a to 10 g are each an example of an outer pipe or another outer pipe, and the branched pipes 50 a to 50 g are each an example of a branched pipe or another branched pipe. Also, in the eighth embodiment, it is appropriate that the branched pipes 50 a to 50 g are respectively connected to the twisted outer pipes 10 a to 10 g on the same side of the distributor 8 (right side in the drawing). In other words, it is appropriate that the branched pipes 50 a to 50 g are connected to positions where the twisted outer pipes 10 a to 10 g are arranged on a substantially straight line. This is to connect the branched pipes 50 a to 50 g in the same direction.

Or, the overall structure of each of the first distributor 8 a to the seventh distributor 8 g may be basically the same as that in FIG. 5. In this case, as an example, referring to the first distributor 8 a, the first distributor 8 a also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof. The first distributor 8 a also includes the outer pipe 10 a having a cylindrical shape, the inlet coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 a on the refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and the cap coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 a on the refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. The first distributor 8 a also includes the plurality of branched pipes 50 a joined to the outer pipe 10 a and connected to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger which are not shown. However, in the eighth embodiment, the outer pipe 10 a is twisted, for example, in a spiral shape about the axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the distributor 8. The above may be applied to the second distributor 8 b to the seventh distributor 8 g. In this case, the outer pipes 10 a to 10 g are each an example of an outer pipe or another outer pipe, and the branched pipes 50 a to 50 g are each an example of a branched pipe or another branched pipe. Also, in the eighth embodiment, it is appropriate that the branched pipes 50 a to 50 g are respectively connected to the twisted outer pipes 10 a to 10 g on the same side of the distributor 8 (right side in the drawing). That is, it is appropriate that the branched pipes 50 a to 50 g are connected to the positions where the twisted outer pipes 10 a to 10 g are arranged on a substantially straight line. This is to connect the branched pipes 50 a to 50 g in the same direction.

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the distributor 8 in FIG. 13 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

When the outer pipes 10 a to 10 g are twisted in a spiral shape, as illustrated in FIG. 14, while portions of the outer pipes 10 a to 10 g below the lowest connection pipe 40 g in FIG. 11 are seen from the front, portions of the outer pipes 10 a to 10 g above the connection pipe 40 g are not seen by overlapping them from the inside.

In a case where the overall structure of each of the first distributor 8 a to the seventh distributor 8 g is based on FIG. 1, a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of each of the first distributor 8 a to the seventh distributor 8 g according to the eighth embodiment is the same as that in FIG. 2, or FIG. 3A or 3B. For example, referring to the first distributor 8 a, in the eighth embodiment, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 a (three of the branched pipes 50 a in FIG. 13) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 a (three of the branched pipes 50 a in FIG. 13) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in the eighth embodiment, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 a (three of the branched pipes 50 a in FIG. 13) are provided to be different from each other. The above may be applied to the second distributor 8 b to the seventh distributor 8 g.

Also, in the case where the overall structure of each of the first distributor 8 a to the seventh distributor 8 g is based on FIG. 5, the cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of each of the first distributor 8 a to the seventh distributor 8 g according to the eighth embodiment is the same as a view in which the connection pipes 40 a to 40 g are removed from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2, or FIGS. 3A or 3B. For example, referring to the first distributor 8 a, in this case, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 a (three of the branched pipes 50 a in FIG. 13) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 a (three of the branched pipes 50 a in FIG. 13) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 a (three of the branched pipes 50 a in FIG. 13) are provided to be different from each other. The above may be applied to the second distributor 8 b to the seventh distributor 8g.

As such, the eighth embodiment exemplifies that the plurality of branched pipes 50 has the different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and the outer pipe 10 is twisted about the axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the distributor 8. Accordingly, mixing efficiency of gaseous refrigerant and liquid refrigerant may be improved and refrigerant flow distribution may be adjusted, thereby increasing heat exchange capability.

Ninth Embodiment

FIG. 15 is a view illustrating the overall structure of a heat exchanger unit including a distributor 9 and a heat exchanger 60 according to a ninth embodiment of the disclosure.

The overall structure of the distributor 9 included in the heat exchanger unit according to the ninth embodiment is the same as that in FIG. 1 or 5. The distributor 9 distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid flowing through the inside thereof. The distributor 9 includes the outer pipe 10 having a cylindrical shape, the inlet 20 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant upstream side to induce the refrigerant, and the cap 30 coupled by being welded, for example, to an end of the outer pipe 10 on the refrigerant downstream side to block the flow of refrigerant. The distributor 9 also includes the plurality of connection pipes 40 provided in the outer pipe 10, and the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of connection pipes 40, respectively. Or, the distributor 9 includes the plurality of branched pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10.

A cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 9 in FIG. 15 is the same as that in FIG. 2, or FIGS. 3A or 3B when the overall structure of the distributor 9 is the same as that in FIG. 1. In the ninth embodiment, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in the ninth embodiment, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 1) are provided to be different from each other.

Also, in a case where the overall structure of the distributor 9 is the same as that in FIG. 5, the cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the distributor 9 is the same as a view in which the connection pipe 40 is removed from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2, or FIGS. 3A or 3B. In this case, the inner diameters D of the reduced flow path parts 51 in the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Or, the diameters of the front holes 52 or the side holes 53 and 54 of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other. Also, in this case, the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 (five of the branched pipes 50 in FIG. 5) are provided to be different from each other.

The heat exchanger 60 included in the heat exchanger unit according to the ninth embodiment performs heat exchange between a refrigerant and air as an example of a fluid distributed by the distributor 9. The heat exchanger 60 includes a plurality of pins 61 arranged at a predetermined interval in a vertical direction, a plurality of refrigerant pipes 62 provided in parallel to penetrate passing holes of the respective pins 61 as an example of a plurality of fluid pipes, a header 63 to collect the refrigerant flowing out of the plurality of refrigerant pipes 62, and an external connection pipe 64 to flow the refrigerant out of the heat exchanger 60 from the header 63.

The plurality of branched pipes 50 of the distributor 9 is connected to the plurality of refrigerant pipes 62 of the heat exchanger 60, respectively.

As such, the ninth embodiment exemplifies that the inner diameters D and the insertion lengths L of the plurality of branched pipes 50 are different from each other. Accordingly, refrigerant flow distribution may be adjusted, thereby increasing heat exchange capability.

As is apparent from the above, a distributor according to the disclosure can increase the possibility of adjusting fluid flow distribution to a plurality of branched pipes, compared to a case where inner diameters of reduced flow path parts of at least two branched pipes of the plurality of branched pipes and insertion lengths of the at least two branched pipes into the outer pipe are each the same.

While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An air conditioner comprising: a distributor configured to distribute a fluid flowing therethrough; and a heat exchanger including a plurality of refrigerant pipes through which the fluid distributed by the distributor flows, the heat exchanger configured to heat exchange the fluid with air, wherein the distributor includes: an outer pipe having a cylindrical shape through which the fluid passes, and a plurality of branched pipes, wherein each of the plurality of branched pipes includes one end connected to the outer pipe by being inserted into the outer pipe and comprises a fluid passing part provided to allow the fluid to flow in or out, and wherein at least two branched pipes among the plurality of branched pipes are configured such that at least one of a diameter of the fluid passing part or an insertion length inserted into the outer pipe is different from each other.
 2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the fluid passing part comprises at least one of: a reduced flow path part formed at the one end of each of the branched pipes, or a hole formed on one surface of each of the branched pipes inserted into the outer pipe.
 3. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein the diameter of the fluid passing part comprises at least one of: an inner diameter of the reduced flow path part, or a diameter of the hole.
 4. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the outer pipe is formed in at least one of a circular cylindrical shape or a rectangular cylindrical shape.
 5. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the outer pipe comprises a protrusion provided on an inner surface of the outer pipe.
 6. The air conditioner according to claim 5, wherein the protrusion is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe corresponding to an insertion direction of each of the branched pipes.
 7. The air conditioner according to claim 5, wherein the protrusion is provided at a position corresponding to a position to which each of the branched pipes is connected on the inner surface of the outer pipe.
 8. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the outer pipe comprises a plurality of protrusions provided to be spaced apart from each other along a circumferential direction of an inner surface of the outer pipe.
 9. The air conditioner according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of protrusions is formed in at least one of a triangular shape or a trapezoidal shape.
 10. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the outer pipe is twisted about an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the outer pipe.
 11. The air conditioner according to claim 10, further comprising: another outer pipe having a cylindrical shape; and a plurality of other branched pipes, wherein each of the plurality of the other branched pipes is connected to the other outer pipe and comprises a reduced flow path part inserted into the other outer pipe, wherein the other outer pipe is twisted about an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the other outer pipe, and wherein at least two other branched pipes among the plurality of the other branched pipes are each configured such that at least one of an inner diameter of the reduced flow path part or the insertion length inserted into the other outer pipe are different from each other.
 12. A distributor for distributing a fluid to each of a plurality of refrigerant pipes provided in a heat exchanger of an air conditioner, the distributor comprising: an outer pipe having a cylindrical shape through which the fluid passes; and a plurality of branched pipes, wherein each of the plurality of branched pipes includes one end connected to the outer pipe by being inserted into the outer pipe and comprises a fluid passing part provided to allow the fluid to flow in or out, and wherein at least two branched pipes among the plurality of branched pipes are configured such that at least one of a diameter of the fluid passing part or an insertion length inserted into the outer pipe is different from each other.
 13. The distributor according to claim 12, wherein the fluid passing part comprises at least one of: a reduced flow path part formed at the one end of each of the branched pipes, or a hole formed on one surface of each of the branched pipes inserted into the outer pipe.
 14. The distributor according to claim 13, wherein the diameter of the fluid passing part comprises at least one of: an inner diameter of the reduced flow path part, or a diameter of the hole.
 15. The distributor according to claim 12, wherein the outer pipe comprises a protrusion provided on an inner surface of the outer pipe.
 16. The distributor according to claim 15, wherein the protrusion is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe corresponding to an insertion direction of each of the branched pipes.
 17. The distributor according to claim 15, wherein the protrusion is provided at a position corresponding to a position to which each of the branched pipes is connected on the inner surface of the outer pipe.
 18. The distributor according to claim 12, wherein the outer pipe comprises a plurality of protrusions provided to be spaced apart from each other along a circumferential direction of an inner surface of the outer pipe, and wherein the plurality of protrusions is formed in at least one of a triangular shape or a trapezoidal shape.
 19. The distributor according to claim 12, wherein the outer pipe is twisted about an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the outer pipe.
 20. The distributor according to claim 19, further comprising: another outer pipe having a cylindrical shape; and a plurality of other branched pipes, wherein each of the plurality of branched pipes is connected to the other outer pipe and comprises a reduced flow path part inserted into the other outer pipe, wherein the other outer pipe is twisted about an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the other outer pipe, and wherein at least two other branched pipes among the plurality of the other branched pipes are each configured such that at least one of an inner diameter of the reduced flow path part or an insertion length inserted into the other outer pipe are different from each other. 